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Now accepting applications for the Nola Varns Burnam Incentive Award through Nov. 15th!

The Nola Varns Burnam Incentive Award provides up to $1,500 to support SDOTA members pursuing innovative ideas, professional development, new equipment, program development, or other opportunities that expand and strengthen occupational therapy in South Dakota.

Whether you have a new idea you’d like to bring to life or an opportunity that could help grow your practice, education, or service to the profession, we encourage you to apply! Applications are due November 15, 2026.

Check out the application for full details, eligibility requirements, and examples of how award funds may be used.

Apply Now!


ABOUT SDOTA

The South Dakota Occupational Therapy Association (SDOTA) is a professional organization dedicated to supporting the field of occupational therapy across our state. As a resource for occupational therapy practitioners and students, we strive to promote excellence in practice, support lifelong learning, and advocate for the health and well-being of individuals and our communities. 

JOIN NOW

A female occupational therapist smiles and hugs her elderly female patient.

BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP

Membership in the South Dakota Occupational Therapy Association helps support occupational therapists, occupational therapy assistants, and occupational therapy students across the state of South Dakota.

Our work includes advocacy for the profession of occupational therapy as well as active involvement in state and national legislation that influence provision of occupational therapy services. Networking and professional development are also foundational to our organization. 

LEARN MORE

Upcoming events

  • High Intensity Rehabilitation in the Geriatric Population

    • 10 Nov 2026
    • 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
    • Functional Kids Pediatric Therapy - Sioux Falls & Virtual Option

    High Intensity Rehabilitation in the Geriatric Population

    Presented by Karlee Burton, OTD, OTR/L

    Tuesday, November 10th, 2026
    7:00 PM CT/6:00 pm MT
    In person or Virtual Option
    ⏱️ 1-hour presentation

    Registration

    SDOTA Members: FREE
    Students: FREE
    Non-Members: $10

    About the Presentation

    This presentation explores evidence-based principles and practical clinical strategies for implementing high-intensity rehabilitation (HIR) to improve physical function and independence in older adults across rehabilitation settings. Participants will review foundational concepts of HIR, including physiologic overload, safe vital sign parameters, dosing principles, and methods for monitoring patient response during high-intensity exercise. Case scenarios highlight real‑world clinical reasoning, progression planning, and safety considerations. Additionally, the presentation covers functional training approaches, neuromotor interventions, resistance progression, patient communication strategies, and documentation practices that support defensible, physiologically informed care. Emphasis is placed on empowering clinicians to confidently deliver challenging, meaningful therapy sessions that align with patients’ goals while maintaining safety and optimizing functional outcomes.
    Show details

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